Animated videos have become a go-to solution for businesses, educators, and content creators who want to communicate clearly and memorably. They’re not just for cartoons or entertainment anymore—animated videos are used for explainer content, marketing campaigns, training, and even emotional storytelling. What makes them powerful is their ability to simplify complex ideas, grab attention, and stay in viewers’ minds long after the video ends.
Let’s explore some types of animated video examples, how they’re used in real-world situations, and what makes each style unique. Whether you’re thinking of creating one for your brand, your school, or your project, this guide will help you better understand what kind of animated video works best for your needs.
Explainer Video Examples
Explainer videos are among the most popular animated formats. Their main goal is to quickly and clearly explain a concept, product, or service. They’re short, straight to the point, and packed with value.
Common uses of explainer videos:
- Introducing a new product or service
- Describing how something works
- Helping people understand a process or idea
- Onboarding new users or customers
Real-world example:
A software company might create an animated video showing how their app helps users track their expenses. Instead of showing boring screenshots or long tutorials, they simplify everything with engaging animation, voice-over, and catchy visuals.
Benefits of using explainer animations:
- Easy to understand
- Helps improve conversion rates
- Perfect for websites, landing pages, and social media
- Can be reused in email marketing or customer support
Popular animation styles for explainers:
- 2D flat design
- Whiteboard animation
- Motion graphics
- Character animation
These styles work well because they’re clean, modern, and versatile. Businesses often choose them because they feel professional yet friendly.
Educational Animated Video Examples
Educational content doesn’t have to be dry or boring. Animated videos can turn complex lessons into engaging visual experiences that are easier to absorb and remember.
Use cases for educational animation:
- Classroom learning
- Online courses
- YouTube tutorials
- Corporate training
Real-world example:
A science teacher might use animation to show how photosynthesis works. Instead of relying solely on diagrams or long lectures, an animated clip walks students through each step with visuals, sound, and simple narration.
Benefits of animated educational content:
- Helps learners visualize hard-to-grasp topics
- Increases retention and engagement
- Great for all ages—from kids to adults
- Works well with subtitles, voice-over, or music
Types of educational animations:
- Step-by-step visual guides
- Story-based lessons with animated characters
- Real-time simulations
- Concept breakdowns with voice-over and icons
The flexibility of animation makes it perfect for subjects like math, history, biology, or even soft skills like communication.
Promotional Animated Video Examples
Promotional animated videos are all about grabbing attention and leaving an impression. These are often fast-paced, colorful, and energetic. They’re built to spark interest, highlight benefits, and inspire action.
Where you’ll usually find these videos:
- Social media ads
- Product launches
- Brand storytelling
- Event promotion
Real-world example:
An eco-friendly brand might release an animated video showing how their bamboo toothbrushes reduce plastic waste. With upbeat music, snappy transitions, and fun visuals, they get their message across in less than a minute.
Why animated promos work:
- They’re eye-catching and scroll-stopping
- They work well with or without sound
- They deliver quick, strong messages
- They’re easy to customize for different platforms
Popular formats for promotional animations:
- Logo reveals
- Product feature highlights
- Animated testimonials or reviews
- Animated countdowns or announcements
Animated promotional videos help brands stand out in crowded feeds and speak directly to their audience’s needs and interests.
Table: Comparison of Animated Video Types
| Type of Animated Video | Purpose | Ideal For | Common Style | Key Benefit |
| Explainer Videos | Simplify ideas or processes | Startups, tech companies, SaaS | 2D, motion graphics, whiteboard | Improves understanding |
| Educational Videos | Teach or train audiences | Teachers, trainers, course creators | Story-based, step-by-step | Boosts retention |
| Promotional Videos | Market a product or brand | Marketers, business owners | Fast-paced, colorful, upbeat | Increases brand awareness |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best type of animated video for beginners?
Explainer videos are a great starting point. They’re simple to make using tools like Powtoon, Animaker, or Vyond, and they serve a clear purpose—helping people understand something quickly.
Can I make animated videos without experience?
Yes, absolutely. Many animation platforms have drag-and-drop features and pre-made templates. You don’t need to be an artist or video editor to get started.
How long should an animated video be?
Most animated videos perform best when they’re under 2 minutes. For ads, 30 to 60 seconds is ideal. For educational content, 5 to 10 minutes can work if the video is broken into segments.
What’s the difference between 2D animation and motion graphics?
2D animation often includes characters and storytelling, while motion graphics use shapes, text, and icons to represent ideas. Both can be effective, depending on your goal.
How much does it cost to make an animated video?
It depends. DIY platforms can cost as little as a few dollars per month. Hiring a professional team can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the quality, length, and complexity.
Conclusion
Animated videos are more than just entertaining—they’re practical, powerful tools for communication. Whether you’re trying to explain, educate, or promote something, there’s an animation style that can bring your message to life. From explainer videos that simplify complex ideas, to educational animations that help people learn, to promo clips that drive attention—each type serves its unique role.
What makes animation so effective is how it combines visuals, movement, and storytelling in a way that captures attention and sticks in people’s minds. You don’t need a Hollywood budget or a design degree to get started, either. With today’s tools and platforms, anyone can make compelling animated content.
If you’re planning your next video, think about what you want to achieve. Then choose the animation style that fits your message. With the right approach, your video can inform, inspire, and connect with your audience—one frame at a time.